Thinking about
homeschooling
your kids but need help envisioning how to make it work?
If so, let us help!
Where do I Start?
We believe that homeschooling should be as stress-free and enjoyable as possible. Although there are a multitude of avenues you can turn as a homeschool parent, we are happy to provide a supportive roadmap as you embark on your exciting journey. Here are some tips on how to start homeschooling.
Click here to find homeschool laws in your state. Understand what it is and not. Rules vary from state to state.
Explore local, support groups in your area. These groups & co-ops can be useful resources. Be sure to tap into key home-schooling FB Groups.
Explore philosophies of education and curriculums options. Find the one that best matches your family priorities & your child's learning preferences.
Create a schedule and develop a plan.
Trust the process! Homeschooling offers a lot of opportunities but it is a slow process to find a rhythm that works for your family.
Specialized Curricula Resources
Although there is no perfect curriculum, there are materials that are more suited for learners with special needs.
Reading/Language Arts
Visual Tracking Resources
High School Level
Wiesner Educational (publisher)
K5 Learning (K-6) (downloads)
Affordable Curriculum Options
One thing that often surprises families starting their homeschooling journey is that the curriculum doesn't have to break the bank. There are plenty of affordable options available.
From deeply discounted to entirely free (text)books are at your fingertips. Here are a few great places to begin your search.
Easy Peasy All-in-One Homeschool
**Recommended
Online Spanish Courses
Homeschool Testing Resources
IOWA (K-12)
Stanford 10 online (3-12)
CAT E-Survey (4-12)
TerraNova 2 (CAT 6) (K-12)
Aptitude Tests
Placement Tests
*Note: Accommodations provided via IEP, SEP, or 504 are allowable on these tests.
Curriculum and Beyond
Math Resources and Curriculum Options
Benchmark Education (Spanish Available)
Curricula for Students with LD:
Touchmath - best for highly visual learners a sequential
CTC Math (K-12) - mastery-based, multi-sensory program; online video tutorials.
IXL Math (K-12) – spiral curriculum that provides concepts based on grade-level standards.
Teaching Textbooks (3rd-pre-calculus)- spiral-based, self-grading curriculum.
Thinkwell Homeschool (6-12) - mastery, video-based; automatic grading, study notes, tests, & grade reports included.
Beast Academy (Ages 8-13) – advanced, comic-based; focused on problem-solving.
Saxon Math (K-12) – spiral-based math program; easy to implement.
Math U See (K-12) - mastery-based program with teaching videos, manipulatives & consumable texts.
Denison Algebra - layered instruction that builds on concepts from the start; levels available include prealgebra - advanced Algebra & Trig.
Finding Support.
You Are Not Alone!
Numerous disabilities have local and national non-profits linking communities, supporting parents, with online and offline groups tailored to individual family needs.
Local Advocacy (Maryland)
Maryland Homeschool Associations
The Maryland Community Connection
The Parents' Place of Maryland
Emotional Support
National Advocacy Organizations
National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD)
Articles
How Should Students with Disabilities Find the Right College?
College Guide for Student with Disabilities
Preparing for College
Funding for Students with Disabilities
Scholarships for Students with LD
Vocational School
The College for Students Who Learn Differently
Trade Schools, Colleges & Universities
Accrediting Commision of Career Schools & Colleges
Functional Life Skill Curriculum
Enjoy your kids.
Learning should be continuous and it should also be fun!
Set healthy & realistic expectations.
Each year brings a new experience. Embrace change. Evaluate ahead of time what a customized experience looks like for your unique family.
Build a support system.
Input or inspiration, affirmation or validation. Finding a community can help to refocus and ground you on those tough days. Comparisons steal joy, but a community provides connections to remind you that you are not alone.